I'm actually suggesting a term that I can't remember!

I first encountered it watching an old re-run of the original 'Avengers' TV series (Steed & Mrs Peel in this one).

Then it re-appeared when I discovered, on PBS, a show from the UK, which I believe was called 'Master of the Glen' (it's been some years).

Anyway, both shows were set in an olde estate in Scotland headed up by a 'laird' (at least that's how it sounded)  & the word I've forgotten is the title of the laird's top assistant (not related to him btw, but I think it was also inherited).

Alternatively, in an old, old 'Dr Who' episode a scottish lord of some kind had a JOAT-type person at his disposal who was simply called "The Caber".